The fifth inning of Framber Valdez’s start Monday night spiraled into the worst of his major league career, allowing seven runs in a surprising meltdown. Three Angels hitters slugged home runs against him, sinking the Astros 9-7. Valdez had never allowed more than two home runs in a start for Houston. Monday, he allowed three in a span of six hitters.

Valdez had a 6-1 lead after four innings but lost it during a nightmare inning where his usual dominance vanished. Houston hit just four of its first 51 home runs this season with multiple runners on base. Angels won 9-7 in the opener of a three-game series at Minute Maid Park.